BACK TO SCHOOL TIPS & ADVICE

Unfortunately whether you love it or not the change from summer fun, to back to school is happening and we know it can be hard! We've put together some tips and advice to help your children have a smooth and easy transition into the new term...

Settle Back into your School Routine Well in Advance

The mad school rush can be stressful, getting your children out the door will be less stressful if you've had the chance to ensure they aren't still following their lazy summer habits. The week before school starts it's important to try introducing bedtimes and put an end to the long lie-ins. If you reintroduce a nightime routine and early morning starts just before they head off, it will help make the school mornings a little less rushed!

Tackle Homework Head On

Homework is a subject no child or parent likes to think about but it has to be done! Getting your kids to do their homework can sometimes seem like a losing battle. Incorporating homework into their everyday routine can help tackle this issue! Establish a time and a place for studying at home so that your kids can get the most out of their studies. Make sure you're around to help lend a hand if needed, even if you're cooking in the kitchen whilst they are busy working at the table, or even if you're reading a book in the living room, it's great to be around to check on your child's progress.

Plan After-School Activities

If you're a working parent and your child finishes school before you get home, it's important to figure out where your children will go, what they'll get up to or who will be home to greet them. If you’re in need of some after-school care, check with your child's school or other parents if there are any facilities or places that they'd recommend.  During those first few days back at school try to be there when your child gets home - you'll be able to ask them about their day, help them adjust to their new schedule and discuss their teachers.

Be Adventurous with your Children's Lunch Boxes

Gone are the days when a humble ham sandwich would suffice. In an age of allergies and healthy food policies enforced by schools, planning a packed lunch can be problematic. So make sure you get the school policy on just exactly what you can and can’t put in it their lunch box. The best approach is to sit down and discuss with your kids exactly what they want. Alternatively take them shopping with you and get them involved in what they eat. If you're struggling for ideas, we've put together some fun ideas ourselves. 

Keep Track of your Family

Things can get pretty hectic at home, so you’re going to need to do something to keep track of who needs what and when. A diary, calendar or wall planner are probably your best options however if a post-it note covered fridge is more your style, roll with it. Having an organised home life will set a brilliant example to your children and ensure that you're always on top of up-coming events.